What is GroupMe? Is is a mobile messaging app that allows the group or group administrator to control the membership of the group. Once set up, group members do not have to download the app as it works through the SMS on the phone without the app. When a group member posts a message, everyone in that group can see it and comment or reply. The messenger can attach pictures,
documents, video clips to posts as well. If both users have the full GroupMe app, they can also message privately. It actually works somewhat like a mini Facebook.
Spartan Investigations is a small, multi-state investigation and security company that uses the app extensively. There are three groups within the company: 1) the leadership team that includes the company officers, directors, and legal team; 2) the personal protection specialists that conduct protection details; and 3) the security group that includes security officers armed and unarmed security services at various posts. There is overlap between the groups (I'm in all three) but it provides excellent communications within the company. Because the business is run in a family way, GroupMe serves as both a business communication and as a social place where birthdays and family accomplishments are posted.
This app would be excellent in a distance learning environment. Classmates can communicate in a timely manner, yet a group administrator, the instructor can communicate privately with learners. With the private communication option, the same app would allow direct turn-in of assignments. For institutions with tools already in place, this may not be useful, but GroupMe might be a valuable ad hoc tool for a class that has to shift to distance learning.
I love that you are bringing up GroupMe as an educational tool! I have a lot of experience in GroupMe and find it to be extremely beneficial for communicating with larger groups. One downfall I have found can be the relaxed nature of the chat. I have been in multiple situations where members have felt so relaxed that they shared information that later had severe ramifications - one resulting in a termination. I think in adult learners, this could be a great tool. For a K12 crowd, I may be nervous unless a teacher was involved in each group -- which could become overwhelming.
ReplyDeleteA agree it has potential to be misused. If reference to inappropriate behavior, check out my post on Social Media Assisted Career Suicide Syndrome.
DeleteI have been using GroupMe as a team communication tool for my sons soccer team. The coach has a group set up with the parents and one with the team members. This allows him to stay in contact with each player and encourages the team through the week, even on non-soccer days. It has been a great tool for our team however I was not aware of all the extra features you spoke about. Good to know!
ReplyDeleteExcellent post. I have used GroupMe as a Coach and as a parent. It is similar to WhatsApp. I think the app most associated with education and communication though is usually Remind. Remind is now even being integrated into many other platforms for seamless use.
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